2. SYDNEY

Their "mysterious" culture will get them there again. This might be another competitive season, with no one dominating. Sydney will thrive in such an environment. Not for nothing have they featured in three of history’s cliff-hanger grand finals in just the last seven years. Players like Roberts-Thomson, Bolton, O’Keefe and Morton might have been rejected by other clubs, but in the Sydney context, they have proved indispensable. Goodes might be in decline, but he proved that, surrounded by determined men unwilling to waste opportunities, he can even play out a season on one leg. Youngsters like Johnson and Jetta have been infected by the magic, and now they’ve tasted a premiership they’ll find it addictive. The controversial and sometimes unstoppable Tippett should fit neatly, once he takes the field after his 12-week suspension for his part in the alleged salary cap beaches. They have outside runners and redoubtable defensive pressure. They have the players and attitude to ensure that competitiveness, accuracy and resilience will win. Hawthorn is the head-pick, but the heart craves another Swans premiership.

Sydney Swans - AFL Grand Final Winners 2012 Sydney Swans celebrate winning the 2012 AFL Premiership. Image: Getty Images